What is the difference between fibromyalgia and Lyme disease?

Unlike fibromyalgia, a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi is the cause of Lyme disease, which is carried by ticks. This parasite may cause localized disease or disseminated disease, depending upon the time elapsed before treatment. Fibromyalgia, however, is not brought about by a specific external pathogen. This illness is due to an anomaly in the way pain is perceived by the central nervous system. It is likely that one's genetic makeup combine with environmental factors to create the hyperirritable state that is fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia and Lyme disease share some symptoms, but they are very different diseases. In this video, family medicine specialist Dr. Jennifer Caudle explains how that affects the way these problems are diagnosed and treated.

Continue Learning about Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition which has no cure. Development of a self-management plan, which may include medications and exercises, can help you reduce the occurrence of symptoms and flares that are associated with fibromya...

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition which has no cure. Development of a self-management plan, which may include medications and exercises, can help you reduce the occurrence of symptoms and flares that are associated with fibromyalgia. Learn more from our experts about fibromyalgia.